Dr. Bill warns parents about a dangerous new teen fad Show Notes

The "salt and ice challenge" is making its rounds across YouTube and social networking sites. To play the game, kids press salt and ice against their skin for as long as they can tolerate the burning pain. The resulting injury is similar to frostbite.

One 12-year-old boy from Pittsburgh sustained second-degree burns on his back after engaging in the game.

According to WPXI-TV in Pittsburg, the victim will need several months to recover. His family released a statement warning other students of the game's dangers:

They said “We want teenagers and the general public to know that the 'salt and ice challenge' is extremely dangerous. Videos on You Tube, Facebook and other social media do not accurately show the terrible injuries that can result. “

“We are grateful that our son is recovering and hope that sharing his story will stop other young people from attempting this stunt."

The incident comes two months after school officials in the area expressed concern to parents that the fad was catching on with students. In fact they sent out a letter to parents informing them of the dangers of the game.

Unfortunately there are other dangerous fads that many parents aren’t clued into, such as the “choking game” which has taken the lives of kids across the country.

That’s why it’s so critical to have regular, open discussions with your kids about today’s youth culture. A great place to go for advice is Focus on the Family’s website “PluggedIn.com.”